Honda, Ford and Kia among Edmunds’ top-rated

Every year, Edmunds’ experts put their heads together to determine the best new vehicles on sale.

Spread across nine categories, the Edmunds Top Rated Awards are given to the cars, trucks and SUVs that rank at the top of their class according to Edmunds’ vehicle-testing program.

Here, we’ve highlighted a new first-time winner for 2022 and two returning champions from last year’s awards.

TOP-RATED SEDAN: 2022 HONDA CIVIC

Edmunds says: When a compact sedan survives for nearly 50 years and continues to redefine its segment, you know it’s special. The Honda Civic is both sporty to drive and comfortable inside, with well-padded seats and a smooth ride. There’s also much more space than you’d expect from a car in this class. The Civic sedan has a huge trunk and there’s ample space in the back seat too.

Counterpoint: Road noise is noticeable and can be rather intrusive on coarse surfaces.

TOP-RATED TRUCK: 2021 FORD F-150

Edmunds says: From tech to towing, the Ford F-150 continues to lead the pack and deliver the confidence that customers expect. Redesigned for 2021, the latest F-150 fended off all comers, extending its rule as a repeat Edmunds Top Rated winner. We’re impressed by the F-150’s clever features, which include nearly fold-flat front seats and a disappearing gear shifter that creates a handy workspace. We’re giving the award to the 2021 model because the 2022 wasn’t available for testing, but no significant changes are expected for 2022.

Counterpoint: While the F-150 rides pretty comfortably, the Ram 1500’s coil-spring rear suspension provides a slightly better ride.

TOP-RATED SUV: 2022 KIA TELLURIDE

Edmunds says: As a midsize three-row SUV, the Kia Telluride provides comfortable and surprisingly luxurious accommodations for seven or even eight passengers. But it’s not so big that it feels clumsy to drive or difficult to manoeuvre in tighter confines. If you have a lighter passenger load, the Telluride’s cabin space easily converts into cargo-friendly transport. There were a number of new and exciting SUVs introduced this year, but the Kia Telluride continues to stand above the rest. It takes home Edmunds Top Rated SUV award for the third year in a row.

Counterpoint: There are fewer storage bins and cubbies than you’ll find in some rival SUVs.